As at 7th April 2023, the gate here is locked, despite be on a Bridleway and Sustrans Route 47. Not a problem if in a group, but a considerable issue for an e-bike singleton. I'm going to file a report with Sustran.
Reply from Sustran:
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Hi Paul,
Thanks for getting in touch regarding the locked gate along route 47 of the National Cycle Network (NCN).
Although at Sustrans we are custodians of the NCN, we only own approximately 2% of the land it runs on, with the rest owned by local authorities or private landowners. I’m afraid, the locked gate is a longstanding and ongoing issue that has been raised many times with Neath Port Talbot Council and Natural Resources Wales. The land in question is a mix of council rights of way and access for the Coed y Cymoedd Windfarm.
Our Network Development team have been frustrated by this gate along NCN 47 for a long time. However, as this section is not owned by Sustrans, there is little we can do other than reporting the locked gate. Reports should be registered with Neath Port Talbot Council as it is not directly Sustrans’ responsibility.
Please know that we share your frustration around this section of NCN 47.
If you have any further comments, please direct them to the Sustrans Cymru inbox, I have Cc’d them into this email.
Thank you again for raising this issue. We really appreciate localised insights from path users, so thank you for taking the time to write.
Best,
Sam Willmore
Supporter Care Officer | Fundraising & Supporter Engagement | Sustran
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So a known, intractable and long running problem.